If you are on the hunt for a unique painting experience that not your typical wine and mediocre painting, try spending an evening with Elliott Jordan at the Gallery on Ridge. Pleasant Ridge has slowly been transforming into a vibrant restaurant and nightlife scene, but it has been home local artist Elliott Jordan and his gallery for over 23 years. Elliott specializes in unique collections, African art, commissioned art and now art parties. All art parties are B.Y.O.B. so grab a bottle of your favorite wine for that creative boost.

My advice: Grab dinner at one of the amazing Pleasant Ridge restaurants before your art class!

The Experience

What makes this experience so unique is Elliott himself. Born in Virginia, Elliott has degrees in art from Murray State University and the University of Kentucky. Using his history of professional art he taught at the University of Kentucky and Transylvania University in Lexington. He eventually made his way to Cincinnati where he taught art in Cincinnati Public Schools for 25 years. Now retired and focusing only on commission art and art classes, Elliott passion shines brighter than ever.

Throughout the class, Elliott will share humorous stories and experience relating to his teaching career. He has a relaxed teaching style in class, which makes it so much more enjoyable and you don’t feel rushed to create your masterpiece.

The Art

You can make your art as advanced or simple as you would like. Elliott gives you multiple options on how you can create your own original masterpiece. His techniques are easy for beginners to pick up and before you know it your painting will be complete! There is no filter in the world that can make my artwork look good, but I had a blast painting it! The studio is small and cozy and Elliott always does an icebreaker before class to get everyone loosened up. My favorite Elliott quote is, “If you think your art doesn’t look good, just go and have another drink!” Did you forget to bring a bottle of wine? Share CheeseBar is right next door and has bottles for sale! You might as well pick up some cheese while you are at it!

The Brews

During our visit to the Gallery On Ridge Elliott’s nephew, Brian Jackson, introduced us to a new brewery that he is starting up in Walnut Hills called Esoteric Brewing. Brian brought samples of two the beers they will be serving and let me tell you, Cincinnati is in for a treat! The old Paramount Building on the corner of E. McMillian and Gilbert will soon be the new home of a family-friendly brewery that is going to be unlike any brewery here in Cincinnati. Imagine more a brewery lounge, where wait staff can get you a beverage and no big screen TVs. I CANNOT wait for this to open in the next year! A fun little tidbit is if you want to own a piece of Esoteric brewing you can for only $100! Hop over to their website for more information!

Book Your Painting Experience Today

I have taken a few painting and sip classes, but this one was by far my favorite to date. If you are looking for an authentic painting experience this is for you! Elliott is currently booking classes into next year! To secure your spot call him at 513-518-6149 or send him a message via his Facebook page!

A special thanks to Elliott Jordan for hosting our experience at the Gallery on Ridge